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Best Easy Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Recipe

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Crispy, golden chicken thighs with a garlic Parmesan crust that stays crunchy. Ready in under 45 minutes with simple ingredients, this cozy winter dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.
  4. Using your fingers, gently loosen the skin of each chicken thigh from the meat, creating a pocket without tearing the skin. Divide half of the garlic Parmesan butter mixture evenly under the skin of each thigh. Rub the remaining butter mixture all over the outside of the skin.
  5. Arrange the chicken on the wire rack skin-side up, leaving at least an inch of space between each piece. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
  6. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 170-175°F (77-80°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. If not brown enough, broil for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Let the chicken rest on the rack for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.
  8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Finish with flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, let chicken thighs sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. Pat skin very dry to ensure crispiness. Freshly grate Parmesan from a block for best melting. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to 25-30 minutes. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, baked chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, winter dinner, comfort food

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